This Baroque painting was completed shortly before the artist’s death in 1669. It is based on the parable told by Jesus in Luke 15. Throughout his life, Rembrandt was said to "reveal an understanding of the spiritual and emotional qualities of life."
This painting is currently located in St. Petersburg Russia.
I chose this painting because I have always especially appreciated the parable of the prodigal son. I believe that this painting portrays the story perfectly.
The fact that the father is bent over, aged, with a long white beard speaks to me of the amount of time the man has been waiting for this moment- the homecoming of his son whom he loves. The son is wearing ragged clothing and only one shoe, emphasizing his poor, helpless state. The thing I do not understand about this painting is the people present in the background.
The painting is dark and almost tragic looking, but the idea behind it is one of great joy.
I like how this painting is firmly based on scripture, making it accurate and truthful.
I like this one as well. If you really like the prodigal son story, I'd highly suggest reading this book, it has a great perspective on it that, at least I, missed when I read and analyzed the parable.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.amazon.com/Prodigal-God-Recovering-Heart-Christian/dp/0525950796#reader_0525950796